Appendix Pain Location

Despite the advancement in science and technology, appendix function is a subject that remains shrouded in mystery. Scientists have not been able to identify the function of an appendix yet. Research is still going on to ascertain the role of an appendix which is why it would be wrong to call it a non-functional organ. Though we might not be aware of its function, one cannot overlook the health risks or dangers associated with an inflamed appendix. Inflammation of appendix is medically referred to as appendicitis. A person suffering from appendicitis is most likely to experience pain. To understand appendix pain location properly, you must first find out more about the location of the appendix in the human body.

The Location of Appendix

The appendix is a narrow tube or a finger-shaped pouch, located on the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. This close ended narrow tube is situated at the ileocecal junction, the place where the ileum from the small intestine and the cecum from the colon come together. The inner portion of the appendix is called the appendiceal lumen. The mucus produced by the appendix passes through the appendiceal lumen and empties into the large intestine. The location of appendix might vary in case of some people, but such anatomical variations are not very common. Some might have the appendix in the center. Those suffering from a medical condition known as situs inversus might have the appendix on the left side.

Causes and Symptoms of Appendicitis

Appendicitis can affect people in the age group of 10-30 years. Whenever the appendix becomes obstructed by the mucus or due to hardening of the stool, it causes bacteria to multiply. This results in swelling and inflammation. Trauma to the abdomen, inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and infection in gastrointestinal tract are all common causes of appendicitis. Where one may experience pain may sometimes vary due to anatomical variations. The appendix is normally located on the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. The pain arising from an inflamed appendix would therefore be felt around the lower right abdomen.

The most common symptom is pain in the abdomen. Pain starts at the navel region and shifts to the lower right abdominal region. The pain can be excruciating and can worsen with sudden jerky movements. It can worsen with coughing, sneezing or while taking deep breaths. The other symptoms of appendicitis include tenderness in the lower right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, constipation, diarrhea and abdominal swelling. The location of the pain might vary depending on factors such as age and location of the appendix.

Treatment of Appendicitis

An inflamed appendix is a very serious condition, therefore, those experiencing the symptoms of appendicitis must get themselves medically examined soon. If left untreated, appendix could even rupture and infection might spread to other parts of the body. An early diagnosis can help in preventing the complications of ruptured appendix. The treatment of appendicitis involves the removal of appendix through surgery. The inflamed appendix can be removed by an open surgery or laparoscopic surgery.

Since an untreated inflamed appendix is a medical emergency, symptoms of appendicitis must be taken very seriously. If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.